Richard III: His Life & Character Reviewed in the Light of Recent Research

Markham meticulously re-examines the historical evidence surrounding Richard’s life reign and character. He critiques the Tudor propaganda that painted Richard as a tyrant and murderer most notably in relation to the deaths of his nephews the Princes in the Tower. Through detailed analysis of contemporary documents letters and reports Markham presents a more sympathetic portrayal arguing that Richard III was a competent and reform-minded ruler who fell victim to political intrigue and misrepresentation after his death. The book provides a nuanced look at Richard’s policies his governance of England and his military leadership particularly during the Wars of the Roses. Markham emphasizes Richard’s efforts to administer justice his loyalty to his family and his effective if short-lived rule. He disputes many of the accusations of treachery and cruelty associated with Richard offering an alternative view of the king as a man of principle who was wronged by history.